Tractor Repair: Kubota mid-PTO leak, bush hog, pto shaft

Question
I have a new (2007) Kubota B7610 with a rear mounted bush hog that I use to keep my pastures clear.  I don't used a belly mower, and I haven't had any significant accidents with the tractor, but last weekend I noticed an oil leak under the mid-PTO.  A closer look revealed a leak around the base of the PTO shaft (where it exits the assembly).  Do you think this is just a seal?  Would be an easy repair?  Do you think it would be a manufacturing defect - i.e. covered under the Kubota warranty?

I know I have a few different types of questions here, but I'd appreciate whatever insight you can provide.  Thanks, in advance.


Answer
Hello,

  I would think that it is just an oil seal that is leaking around the shaft, so it should be a minor repair.  There could be something else such as a defect in the casting where the seal is pressed in, but it would have to be inspected carefully to determine if there is more wrong than just a bad seal.  Check with your dealer if this machine is still under warranty.  It's hard to say if it's a defect or not.  If it can't be proven that the leak was caused by something else that happened such as damage during use, then it should be covered by warranty.  Until you get it fixed, keep checking the oil and don't let it get too low or you can do some serious damage.